ONE DAY WORKSHOP IN BRISTOL. SATURDAY 30 JANUARY 2027.
Flash Lighting Workshop
A full day in a working studio. You shoot, experiment and leave with lighting setups you can reproduce anywhere.
£245 with code EARLYFLASH if you book by 31 December 2026.
Not sure it is right for you? Book a free 15 minute chat
What this is
The free Flash Fundamentals series covers the six principles behind every good flash photograph. This workshop is what comes next: a full day in the studio, working through those principles hands on, with feedback on every frame.
With a maximum of four people, you get proper attention. Every setup you try is one you can recreate at home, because we work in exactly the kind of compact studio most photographers actually have. You also leave with a set of tethered headshots taken on the day.
“Flash Fundamentals gives you the principles. This day gives you the practice.”Marcus Ahmad
The day
- 10:00
A short history of flash
Where flash came from, how it evolved, and why knowing that history makes you better at using it today. Most courses skip this.
- 10:15
The six principles in context
The same six principles apply whether you are a beginner or shooting commercially. We put them into real situations so they stop being theory and start being instinct.
- 10:45
Gear: what to buy and how not to waste money
An honest look at flash kit at different budgets. What makes a real difference, what is marketing, and how to get great results without spending a fortune.
- 11:45
On and off camera flash for events, weddings and groups
Consistent, natural looking flash when you are on the move, including groups, receptions and unpredictable light.
- 12:30
Lunch
- 13:15
Studio flash: beauty dish or softbox
Two of the most useful light shapers, compared side by side. When to use each, what they do to a face, and how to get the most from them in a small space.
- 14:00
One light, reflectors, bounce cards and fill
How far you can push a single light with simple tools. Lean, fast setups without a second flash head.
- 14:45
Troubleshooting
Hotspots, colour casts, sync speed problems and shadows in the wrong place. Most have a quick fix once you know what to look for.
- 15:15
Tethered headshots: everyone shoots everyone
Each person takes the camera and each person sits in front of it. Images go straight to the screen so the group learns from every shot, and you leave with studio headshots taken on professional kit.
- 16:15
Wrap up and what to do next
Your questions answered and a clear plan for practising what you have learned.
You are ready for this if
You shoot in manual and understand the exposure triangle, but flash still feels unpredictable.
You have been experimenting with flash at home but cannot get consistent results.
You came to Flash Fundamentals and want to put the principles into practice.
You want someone to watch you shoot, spot what is going wrong and fix it with you on the spot.
The studio
The day runs in my Bristol studio, a compact, fully equipped working space. That is deliberate. Most photographers work in a spare room, a garage or a small hired space, not a vast commercial studio, so everything we do is designed to work in exactly that kind of room.
18 Montgomery Street, Bristol BS3 4SE.
What to bring
All the camera, flash and studio equipment is provided, so everything works together on the day and you do not need to bring any kit.
- A notebook
- Questions about your own work
Questions
What level do I need to be?
You should be comfortable shooting in manual and understand ISO, aperture and shutter speed. The day is aimed at beginner to intermediate flash users.
Do I need to have done Flash Fundamentals?
No. If you are comfortable shooting in manual, you are ready for this day.
I do not own a flash. Can I still come?
Yes. All the equipment is provided, and we cover what is worth buying if you want your own kit afterwards.
Is lunch included?
Yes. Lunch is included. Let me know about any dietary requirements when you book.
What if I need to cancel?
Cancel 28 days or more before the day for a full refund. After that, your place cannot be refunded, but you can move it to a future date or pass it to someone else. If I ever have to cancel, you get a full refund or a place on the next date, whichever you prefer.
Can I buy a place as a gift?
Yes. Buy a gift voucher
I cannot make 30 January. Will there be other dates?
Yes. Book a free chat and I will let you know as soon as the next date is set.
The details
Your host
Marcus Ahmad is a Bristol commercial and branding photographer with 15 years of teaching experience, including as a Senior Lecturer in Fashion and Advertising Photography at the University of South Wales. He holds a PGCE (Level 7), is a Fellow of the Higher Education Academy and co-hosts a weekly photography podcast.
Four places. One day.
£245 with code EARLYFLASH if you book by 31 December 2026, then £275.
Book your placeNot sure it is right for you? Book a free 15 minute chat